Billy "Mickey" Deville

Lafayette - Billy Michael "Mickey" Deville, 77, of Lafayette, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on the evening of Monday, November 4, 2024. Mickey was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose legacy of love, faith, and leadership will be cherished by all who knew him. Mickey was born on June 9, 1947, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to Ross Deville and Lamar Bryan Roberts. The oldest of five siblings, Mickey was a natural leader, a role he would carry throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Greg Deville. Mickey’s greatest love was his wife, Helen “Ginger” Virginia Creed Deville, whom he married in 1967. They shared 57 years of marriage, having met in first grade in Dry Prong, and together they built a beautiful life and lasting legacy. Their partnership was a model of faith, commitment, and perseverance through life's challenges. Mickey is survived by his wife, Ginger; their children, Michael Shane Deville (wife Tonnia) and Michelene Deville Thibodeaux (husband Andy); grandchildren Evangeline, Magnolia, and Andress Thibodeaux III; two sisters, Diane Gagnard (husband Dallas) and Barbara "Babo" McFatter; his brother, David Deville (wife Kathy); and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Mickey proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, where he worked aboard the USS Tutuila maintaining the PCF Swift boats. His professional life as a machinist was marked by great skill and ingenuity, ultimately earning him a bachelor's degree in Industrial Arts from Northwestern State University. Mickey co-invented a coiled tubing hanger assembly, receiving a patent in 2001. Later, he became co-owner of River Cities Machine in Bossier City, where he worked alongside his son, Shane. Mickey was a passionate sports enthusiast, with a love for fishing, basketball, and golf. He also enjoyed frequent trips to Branson, where he delighted in gospel and bluegrass music. But perhaps his most cherished pursuit in later years was his time in prayer. Daily, Mickey prayed for his family, friends, and the world, always seeking to uplift and encourage those around him. A man of great faith, Mickey devoted much of his life to serving his community. He was a former mayor of Heflin, Louisiana, a deacon at Heflin Baptist Church, and Gospel Light Baptist Church, president of the local softball association, and a coach to his daughter Michelene's team. His dedication to his family and his community was unwavering, and his leadership was evident in every aspect of his life. His son Shane, a pastor and a missionary, followed his father’s footsteps in the machining industry. They worked together for many years and ultimately Shane took over his part of River Cities from Mickey. Mickey was proud of the Godly man Shane has become. The two spoke daily in Mickey’s later years. The conversation was often his favorite part of the day. In retirement, Mickey and Ginger focused on their grandchildren, moving twice in their 70s to be near their daughter, Michelene, and her family. Mickey was especially proud of Michelene and the home she built, and he shared a special bond with his son-in-law, Andy, who considered Mickey’s respect and approval to be among his greatest treasures. Mickey and Ginger were members of Gospel Light Baptist Church in Lafayette, where they were surrounded by a loving church family. The Deville family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, and support extended during Mickey's extended health journey. Mickey leaves behind a profound legacy of faith and integrity, and his life will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him. He is now restored and walking with the Lord, no doubt looking forward to once again enjoying a round of golf with his brother-in-law and dear friend, Dallas. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Gospel Light Baptist Church, 105 Hummingbird Lane, Lafayette, LA 70506. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, with the service following at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gospel Light Baptist Church or a charity of your choice. Mickey will be deeply missed, but his legacy of faith, love, and leadership will continue to inspire and guide his family for generations to come.